crossing over

noun

1.

(biology) the interchange of sections between pairing homologous chromosomes during the diplotene stage of meiosis. It results in the rearrangement of genes and produces variation in the inherited characteristics of the offspring See also linkage (sense 4)

crossing over cross·ing o·ver (krô'sĭng) or cross·ing-o·ver (krô'sĭng-ō'vər)n. The exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes that occurs during meiosis and contributes to genetic variability.